Preparation of a knowledge-based system for aiding diagnosis of the causes of defects in continuously cast steel

Abstract

The report summarises the main steps of the working method that led to the construction of an expert system named "Coccinelle". The aim of this system is to help diagnose the causes of defect formation in continuous casting slabs for the Sollac Dunkerque site. After the construction of a small-scale system, a prototype was built which is presently installed at Dunkerque. It works on two types of defect, those being transverse and longitudinal cracks. The numerous lessons learned, both through the difficulties encountered and the positive experiences gained, make it possible to envisage similar expert systems with operational criteria in an efficient working method.